DHEA/DHEA-S Flashcards
DHEA stands for
dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEA-S stands for
dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate
What is DHEA?
a hormone produced by your body’s adrenal glands. Precursor to male and female hormones, peaking in mid 20’s, then gradually declining.
Why do people take DHEA?
Not much is proven, but claims range
from:
Building up the adrenal gland Strengthening the immune system Slowing natural changes in the body that come with age Providing more energy Improving mood and memory Building up bone and muscle strength
Where is DHEA made?
In the adrenal gland primarily, though also in the brain and intestines
What is DHEA built from?
Primarily from cholesterol, which is a type of fat chemical
What is Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate?
The metabolized version of DHEA. It has an extra sulfate molecule attached to it.
What does the body use to convert DHEAS (the sulfated form of DHEA) into DHEA?
Steroid sulfatase (this enzyme does the same with other sulfated steroids)
How does the body keep a ready supply of DHEA available?
It keeps a circulating reservior of DHEAS that it can convert to DHEA when needed. DHEAS has a half life over 20x longer than DHEA
Is DHEA an androgen?
Yes, but the body can convert it to female hormones as well.
How does one’s DHEA level change through one’s lifetime?
DHEA levels are very high in fetal life, then dropping at birth. They slowly increase until mid 20’s, where they peak, and then slowly lower for the rest of one’s life.
Does DHEA help depression or obesity?
There is evidence that DHEA supplements may treat depression and obesity (if only slightly).
Causality aside, what correlations have people found with low DHEA levels?
Hormonal disorders, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, depression, diabetes, inflammation, immune disorders, etc.
How does one increase DHEA naturally?
Being happy. Exercising regularly. Sexual activity. Getting good sleep. Handling stressors better.
